Mikaela Shiffrin Steadily Overcoming PTSD in Giant Slalom After Crash

After a harrowing crash earlier in the season, American ski star Mikaela Shiffrin is making steady progress in overcoming post-traumatic stress and regaining her confidence in the giant slalom discipline.

The 29-year-old, widely considered one of the greatest alpine skiers of all time, suffered a high-speed fall during a World Cup race in January. Though she escaped serious physical injury, the psychological impact of the crash has lingered. Known for her precision and mental toughness, Shiffrin has openly shared the challenges of returning to peak performance following the incident.

In recent interviews, Shiffrin admitted to experiencing anxiety and hesitation when approaching certain sections of giant slalom courses—something she had rarely felt before. “It’s not about being afraid to ski,” she explained. “It’s about retraining your instincts and trusting your body again after it betrayed you in a moment.”

Her team and close support network have been instrumental in her recovery. Through a combination of mental coaching, focused training sessions, and gradual race re-entry, Shiffrin has begun to reclaim her rhythm and fluidity on the slopes.

Despite a few tentative starts post-injury, her recent performances suggest a promising return to form. In a string of World Cup races in March, she posted top-10 finishes and showed flashes of her signature technique, especially in the second runs—often her strongest.

“I’m not fully there yet, but I feel the progress,” Shiffrin said after a recent race. “I’m learning to ski freely again, even with the memory of the fall. That’s part of the process.”

Shiffrin’s journey resonates beyond sports. Her vulnerability and honesty about mental health challenges have inspired fans worldwide and brought attention to the psychological toll of elite competition. With continued support and perseverance, she is poised not just to return, but to redefine what it means to come back stronger.